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The series Welcome to Derry is packed with nods to the author's wide-ranging library of stories. Beyond the clear ties to the original story, the show also features an explicit connection to King's famous novel through the cameo of a young Dick Hallorann. Now, as the story unfolds, Welcome to Derry is weaving in another classic tale from King that deserves another look.

The Haunting Story of The Shawshank Redemption

While Shawshank Redemption isn't typically considered horror, particularly in contrast with much of King's other writing, it is a gripping story of a wrongfully convicted man sentenced to spend the rest of his life in a notorious penitentiary. It is that very institution that becomes central here, as the Shawshank facility possesses considerable lore throughout King's stories — a tradition which persists within Welcome to Derry.

Some of the stories that reference the prison are Dolores Claiborne, Needful Things, Apt Pupil, 11/22/63, and It. Through these narratives, we learn regarding the terrible conditions at the state penitentiary plus some of those imprisoned within, such as the partner of one of Pennywise's initial targets, who had been found guilty of armed robbery.

Thus far, though, the most we've learned concerning Shawshank has been through the perspective of the protagonist in Shawshank Redemption, played by Tim Robbins in the 1994 movie. The character Andy ends up in Shawshank following his wrongful conviction, then finds himself assaulted and abused by other prisoners, and exploited by the authority figures for his expertise in finance. He requires him 28 years to dig an escape route from Shawshank, prior to crawling "through sewage" to reclaim his liberty.

Shawshank's Appearance in Welcome to Derry

Regarding the series, viewers first learned about the prison's inclusion via an initial preview for the show, where a correctional transport appeared bearing the title displayed on its side. In episode 2, it is revealed who is likely headed to Shawshank.

Although it is known he was not commit the murders of children initially, Hank Grogan (played by Stephen Rider), father of Ronnie (Amanda Christine), is arrested for the crimes. A teaser for the next episode, "the upcoming installment," reveals an officer informing Hank in his cell, "Are you aware what they do to kiddie killers in Shawshank?"

The Implications for Hank and His Daughter

Considering that the actual killer in the town is an ancient power originating elsewhere preying on and murdering children, Hank's chances of proving his innocence appear slim. Even should he does go in the prison and the audience don't follow him inside, understanding what we do about that prison indicates that his time there would not be enjoyable.

More importantly, though, this situation could threaten his daughter. He acts as her guardian. Horrible things are occurring in the town which no one, young or old, understands and Ronnie just has her new group circle of pals to rely on. She's going to need her dad as the story progresses, but if Shawshank has any say, she may be without help.

One thing is apparent: Hank lacks three decades to dig his way out.

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Welcome to Derry episodes 1 and 2 are streaming now via the streaming service. Additional installments air weekly on Sundays.